**Massive Money-Laundering Operation Dismantled in Iberian Raids**

**Fourteen arrests made in Spain and Portugal as international crime ring is exposed; illegal drug trafficking funds moved via innovative laundering schemes**

In a concerted effort to combat monetary crime, Spanish and Portuguese authorities have arrested fourteen individuals linked to a significant money-laundering network, reportedly facilitating over €1 trillion (£828 billion) in transfers. Most of those apprehended are Russian nationals, according to Europol, the European Union's law enforcement agency. The sophisticated operation involved laundering funds primarily from drug trafficking, charging clients a commission of 2-3% for each transaction in what authorities have described as "a genuine multinational money laundering company."

Raids conducted across nine properties in Spain, including major cities and the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, led to the seizure of more than €1 million in cash and cryptocurrencies. The network was adept at processing substantial amounts of illicit money, with some offices reportedly handling up to €300,000 daily for various mafia groups, including those from Albania, Serbia, Armenia, China, Ukraine, and Colombia.

The extensive investigation began earlier this year when law enforcement began tracking Russian mafia members engaged in routine money transfers for foreign nationals in Spain. Europol noted that the organization employed the "Hawala" method, a traditional system allowing individuals to send money across borders without physical or digital transfers between bank accounts. This method enables money to move stealthily and securely, posing significant challenges for law enforcement.

In a surprising twist, the gang was reportedly exploring potential ventures in Cuba, proposing to install solar panels to assist the Cuban government in exchange for minerals. Communication between gang members and Cuban officials suggested these criminals maintained dubious connections to Spanish political figures.

Authorities described the properties raided in cities like Madrid, Málaga, Marbella, Torremolinos, Coín, Ayamonte, and Lisbon as high-security operations, incorporating money-counting machines hidden in soundproof cabinets to mask their operation. The masterminds of the organization reportedly took extreme measures to avoid capture, including frequent changes of location and vehicles, alongside the use of encrypted mobile phones that simultaneously lock down if one member is arrested.

The investigation is still ongoing, with leaders of the operation remaining in custody and further arrests anticipated.